curtaincall
THEATER PREVIEWS AND OPENINGS: MAY 3- 10
“columbinus”
Stephen Karam and PJ Paparelli’s docudrama explores the cultural and personal pathologies that gave rise to the shooting rampage at Columbine High School; directed by Mechelle Moe. To May 26. The Yard at Steppenwolf ’s 1700 Theatre, 1700 N. Halsted, $ 15-$ 25; steppenwolf. org
“Buried Child”
Sam Shepard’s drama about a fragmented family living in a forgotten America; directed by Kimberly Senior. Previews begin May 9, opens May 16; to June 17. Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor, Glencoe, $ 35-$ 80; writerstheatre. org
“The Days Are Shorter”
Corrine J. Kawecki’s play explores life’s joys and challenges at different ages. Previews begin May 8, opens May 10; to June 3. Pride Arts Center, The Buena, 4147 N. Broadway, $ 25; pridefilmsandplays. com
“Forever Plaid”
Stuart Ross’ musical revue that follows a quirky quartet of high school pals who dream of becoming like their singing idols of the ’ 50s; directed by Brenda Didier. Opens May 6; to June 3. Theater at the Center, 1040 Ridge, Munster, Indiana, $ 42, $ 46;
theatreatthecenter. com “The Wizard of Oz”
The musical with special effects and classic songs featured in the 1939 movie. Preview May 8, opens May 9; to May 20. Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State; $ 39-$ 129; chicagotheatre.com
“Grace”
Craig Wright’s play about an enterprising and religious couple and their faithless, bitter neighbor who come to question their beliefs and fears. Previews begin May 4, opens May 7; to June 3. Interrobang Theatre Project at Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, 32; interrobangtheatreproject.com
“Having Our Say
The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years”: Emily Mann’s play about two African- American sisters whose lives and reminisces create a picture of 20th century America; directed by Chuck Smith. Previews begin May 5, opens May 14; to June 10. Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, $ 20-$ 75; goodmantheatre.org
“A New Attitude — In Tribute to Patti LaBelle”
A musical bio of the singer from childhood to superstar status; directed by Rueben D. Echoles. Previews begin May 5, opens May 13; to June 17. Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark, $ 55, $ 65; blackensembletheater. org.
“Outside Mullingar”
John Patrick Shanley’s romantic comedy about two middle- aged misfits in rural Ireland whose budding romance is hindered by a family feud; directed by Steve Scott. Opens May 4; to June 3. Buffalo Theatre Ensemble at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell, Glen Ellyn, $ 37; atthemac. org